Cleaning a hot tub filter is part of regular hot tub maintenance.
Neglecting hot tub maintenance can cause higher than normal pressure inside the hot tub plumbing which can lead to overworking the pumps.
Improper water chemistry coupled with a clogged filter can degrade pump seals and other spa components and lead to leaks at the pump or heater.
Cleaning the spa filter is usually as easy as locating it, removing it from the spa, cleaning the pleats with a garden hose and replacing the clean filter into the hot tub.
Many hot tub owners are not aware that they should be rinsing off their filter at least every week or two depending on use.
A normal garden hose is used to rinse it off including the washing off of debris and other contaminants in the filter paper pleats.
Stubborn oils and deposits may not rinse off with the garden hose, so it is recommended to purchase a cartridge filter spray or overnight filter cleaner to soak it in.
The cleaning spray just sprays right onto the paper pleats of the cartridge filter and like magic, grime and dirt are lifted out of the pores..
Rinsing off the sprayed filter will yield a clean one read for duty again.
The overnight filter soak is an acidic solution that is prepared in a bucket or container and it simply rests inside the container overnight while the pores are opened.
It is then rinsed off and replaced into the spa filter canister.
Some spa manufacturers use more than one filter in their water treatment and filtration system.
Although this is many times unnecessary as the square footage of filter media is usually adequate for most spa purposes in a single cartridge filter.
In any case if more than one is used, then they all should be cleaned or replaced at the same time.
Some filters are located inside pressure filter canisters while others are inside of a regular pool style filter canister.
Some may be accessible by removing a lid or twisting another part or compartment lid off to access the actual cartridge inside the filter canister.
Check your spa's documentation for the location of the filter if you cannot find it.
Note that some are threaded so they can only be removed by unscrewing them, while others lift right out or even have a drawstring to aid in removal.
Note that the spa should not be running when you attempt to change the filter.
Since this is an important spa part in charge of cleaning and filtration, it is usually found in the plumbing line which is attached to the main spa pump or to a dedicated circulation pump.
Either way, if the pump is on, the water pressure and suction created by the pump through the filter compartment will make it much more difficult to remove the cartridge.
Therefore always turn the spa off or at least assure that the main or circulation pump is off before exchanging the filter.
This also will avoid any larger items getting into the plumbing during the exchange.
The spa should never be operated without the filter.
If an overnight cleaning solution is used to freshen up the filter, then a second cartridge may be used in the spa while the first one is soaking.
This is why it is good to have a few of these on hand.
Usually when ordered in bulk, additional savings are available.
Brand name filters include those made by Pleatco, Filbur, Master Series (the most economical) and Unicel.
To reorder a filter, first check if there is a number stamped on one of the end caps.
This number can be used to cross reference the right filter type.
Otherwise, simply measuring the length, width and inner diameter of the center hole and order a replacement filter by the measured dimensions.
Be certain to take note of any unusual features such as a threaded connector, attached string, solid end caps or ones that are rounded.
The replacement unit should match the original, however it can be a different filter brand with no problem.
The media or pleated paper is the most important component of keeping the spa water clean through filtration.
A quality brand name paper for these cartridges is the Reemay brand of filter paper.
When should the spa filter be replaced? This depends on use, but it is recommended to replace the filter or filters every year to year and a half depending on how the spa has been maintained and how often it is used.
Any signs of cracking or physical damage to the filter may be cause for ordering a replacement spa filter sooner.
If a hot tub filter is not rinsed off regularly, debris may accumulate in the filter media or paper.
This makes the pump work harder to move water through the filter and can lead to equipment damage and costly repair bills.
Not properly filtering the water can also result in poor water quality.
Poor water quality may also negatively affect other spa components, gaskets, seals and even the heater.
A special tool is available as an attachment to the garden hose which provides for a wider spray that will better clean the filter paper.
Never use a pressure washer on the filter, as that could damage the pleats permanently.
Enjoy your hot tub and a little maintenance will go a long way to keeping the hot tub in great shape which in turn will help to keep you in great shape!